Shabana FC have finally broken their Round of 16 jinx in the Football Kenya Federation Cup (FKF) competition after securing a narrow 1-0 victory over a spirited Kuta Collection FC at the Wang’uru Stadium on Saturday afternoon to book a ticket to the quarterfinals.
The Glamour Boys displayed prowess to overcome the non-league side, keeping their dreams of continental football and a maiden FKF Cup title alive.
The decisive moment of the match arrived in the first half when Brian Michira found space in the final third after being teed by Brian Bett and unleashed a clinical loop that left Kuta Collection goalkeeper Mustapha Oduor with no chance.
Despite Kuta’s relentless pressure in the second half to find an equalizer and force the game into penalties, the Kisii-based side held firm.
The victory marks a historic milestone for Shabana who have successfully advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time in three attempts.
While Shabana celebrated in Mwea, the biggest shock of the tournament unfolded elsewhere as SportPesa League side Murang’a Seal were convincingly dumped out of the competition by FKF Division One outfit Mfalme FC.
The Eldoret-based side produced a masterclass in thrashing the last edition’s third-place finishers 5-1.
Amos Kanyere and Payai Aron netted a brace each as Felix Ochieng’ bagged the fifth.
Seal’s consolation was scored by Victor Haki from the spot.
With their respective victories, Shabana FC and Mfalme FC have officially joined heavyweights Kenya Police and Tusker FC in the last eight.
Action continues on Sunday as 3K FC host Bandari at the Wang’uru Stadium in Mwea while Kasarani will host a double header of KCB Vs Chebaiywa Lions and Posta Rangers against defending champions Nairobi United.
The winner of this tournament will get more than just a trophy as they earn the single spot to represent Kenya in the 26/27 CAF Confederation Cup.
